False, Nuisance and Unwanted Fire Alarms

A false fire alarm is the activation of any fire alarm system not caused by heat, smoke or fire and results in a response by the fire department. A nuisance fire alarm is the activation of any fire alarm system caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation, lack of proper maintenance or for any other undetermined cause of activation resulting in a response by the fire department. False alarms:

Account for more than 25% of all fire runs across Metro Louisville

Take firefighters away from real emergencies

Can desensitize the community to actual fire incidents and lead to neighbors ignoring a sounding alarm

May make you reluctant to use your fire alarm system, thus exposing your home or facility to fire and property damage

Cost citizens time and money:

$150 to $500 = the average cost per incident respone

$1 million to $3 million = the cost to the fire service and community annually

Most false alarms are easily prevented by following these simple practices:

Notify your fire alarm company if you:

Think your system is not working properly

Are planning any remodeling near a system device, the control panel or key pads

Plan to sell your house

Are testing the system

Have your fire alarm inspected and tested regularly

Replace back-up batteries as directed by the manufacturer

Upgrade older fire alarm systems to currently available equipment

The Idea Bank has produced this public service announce, "False Alarms," on preventing false, nuisance and unwanted alarms.